I was just looking through the Missoni winter 08 collection and it reminded me of everything I hate about winter – beauty-wise, that is. The models look like they should be tucked up under a doona (Missoni zig-zag print, of course) with a steaming mug of Lemsip. Did the makeup artist take the ‘winter beauty’ brief too literally? Because everything about the pale skin, feverish cheeks and can’t-be-bothered hair says flu to me. Of course, we all know there are going to be many times this winter when we’re dribbling and wheezing and very unpretty – but do we have to be reminded of this reality? Especially with autumn looming (although not that my Sydney summer has seemed like summer). It’s enough to make me want to run away to Bali. (more…)

Estée Lauder Double-Wear Zero Smudge Lengthening Mascara, $46, from department stores

A great all-rounder mascara. It lengthens lashes – as you might have already deduced from its name. It also boosts volume to a just-right size. But it’s the stay-fast factor that is most impressive. The company promises a 15-hour wear, even through the most makeup-unfriendly conditions. And, BeautyEditor.com.au can happily report back, this mascara sticks around through sweaty yoga sessions, and long hot balmy days and nights. Another thumbs-up: it’s a cinch to remove, even with warm water.

Model Co Star Smile Teeth Whitener + Lipstick, $46, from David Jones and Model Co

Little point having gorgeously painted lips if your teeth are a distinct shade of yellow, right? Leave it to the beauty-solutions-people at Model Co then to help make our teeth look just as lovely as our lips. This new dual-ended number features impressively strong whitening power for an at-home product. It takes a little fuss to get it right (and you need to apply the whitening gel four times daily for best results) – although it’s nowhere near the hassle of other DIY teeth whiteners. And so much more glamorous – the lipstick comes in five wearable shades, from nude through to pink through to plum, and feels creamy and comfy on the lips.

Bourjois Imperfection Concealer, $20 from Priceline

It’s basically a full-coverage concealer but never looks spakfilla-ish. That’s thanks to its lusciously creamy texture, which is gooey enough to go onto skin well, but thick enough to not settle into lines. All of which makes it ideal for covering dark circles. Nice bonus: there’s mirror on the end of the tube that you can actually clearly see into (unlike so many other token makeup mirrors), making any late-in-day touch-ups easy.

Some benefits of compact foundations are that they’re handbag-friendly and well formulated for touch-ups later in the day. Another is that they double really well as concealer - particularly for the under-eye area. After applying your main layer of base, take the accompanying sponge, fold in half, and dab extra coverage over any darkness underneath the eyes.

Great buy: Max Factor Miracle Touch Liquid Illusion Foundation, $34.95, from Myer, Priceline, variety stores and selected pharmacies.

There are various possible causes for puffy peepers – and it’s important to know some may require a doctor’s attention. But for the regular kind of puffiness, there are some easy at-home solutions …

Home Remedies: You’ve heard talk of ye olde tea-bag trick a million times before. No, not just an old wives’ tale – many experts say that the caffeine and tannins combine to produce a de-puffing effect. Moisten two regular tea bags in cold water (avoid earl grey – the bergamot could irritate eyes), then leave in the fridge until chilled. Place over eyes and lie back for about ten minutes. Slices of cool cucumber and raw potato may also do the job – thanks to their anti-irritating and anti-inflammatory benefits. (more…)